More and more audio devices are going wireless. And Bluetooth technology offers some of the best sounds and hassle-free wireless pairing on the market. Whether you have an Apple or Android smartphone or tablet or any other Bluetooth-ready device, Bluetooth speakers are the perfect match for convenient, high quality sound. Bluetooth speakers have around a 30-foot range and will allow you to use your device as a remote. For the best Bluetooth speakers, check out the Bose Soundlink, Sony RDP-X500iP and Jawbone Jambox models. Also, for more information, read our articles on Bluetooth speakers.
Bluetooth technology is proprietary and completely safe. It allows more than one device to connect wirelessly and is a terrific alternative to wired communications. You won’t need to worry about sound quality loss, provided you stay within the signal range of the two devices. Portable Bluetooth speakers can achieve the same level of sound quality you’ve become accustomed to with more traditional speakers.
Each Bluetooth speaker has its strengths and weaknesses. Some are smaller, more portable units that may not have the same bass reverberation as the larger, more powerful units. Some have an edgy design that would work perfectly in a college dorm, but may not be what your small business environment is looking for. Whatever the case, there are some basic guidelines to follow when shopping for a Bluetooth speaker system.
Performance
First and foremost, look for sound quality. No matter how well designed or how sleek the speakers may look, if the sound quality isn’t there, the speaker isn’t worth your time or money. There’s no reason to sacrifice substance for aesthetics. One of the most important factors to look for is frequency response. You’ll want a speaker system with a wide frequency response to offer the best and most clear sound at low and high tones. The number of speakers is also important. Look for speakers that have a good balance of low frequency speakers for a strong bass and middle and high frequency speakers, or drivers, for a well balanced sound. Also, some of the best Bluetooth speakers offer digital-to-analog converters, 2.1 channels and simulated surround sound.
Features
After you’ve established that the Bluetooth speakers perform well, it’s time to look for other features. Some speakers have docks for your iPhone or iPad and can charge devices while in use. The speakers simply plug into the wall to recharge the internal battery. Depending on use, the battery life is around six to eight hours. Bluetooth connectivity isn’t the only option to look for and the speakers should have an auxiliary input for a basic in-line speaker. The cord most likely will not be included but can be purchased for around $10.
Help & Support
After purchasing your Bluetooth speaker, you shouldn’t need much customer service. But should a problem arise, you’ll want to be able to contact the manufacturer to ask about warranty information or other troubleshooting advice. Look for services with email support, telephone support or chat support.
Bluetooth Speakers are versatile sound options that pair well with an enormous variety of devices without sacrificing sound quality. You’ll love the freedom of listening to your music without having to rely on cables and cords.
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| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 | #6 | #7 | #8 | #9 | #10 |
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Bose Soundlink | Sony Speaker Dock | Jawbone Jambox | iHome Bluetooth Speaker | Philips Docking Speaker | Altec Lansing inMotion Air | JBL On Tour IBT | Logitech Wireless Boombox | Creative | Soundfreaq |
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Lowest Price |
$299.00 |
$298.00 |
$158.99 |
$169.99 |
$129.99 |
$135.43 |
$149.00 |
$111.11 |
$69.99 |
$124.99 |
| Ratings | 10.00 | 9.20 | 9.00 | 8.75 | 7.75 | 7.65 | 7.25 | 7.08 | 6.00 | 6.00 |
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| Performance | ||||||||||
| Minimum Frequency Response (Hertz) | 40 | 50 | 60 | 60 | 50 | 40 | 40 | 75 | 50 | 50 |
| Overall Sound Quality | 100% | 95% | 90% | 85% | 85% | 85% | 75% | 75% | 70% | 70% |
| Maximum Frequency Response (Kilohertz) | 20 | 10 | 20 | 10 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 10 |
| Output Level (dB) | 90 | 90 | 100 | 90 | 95 | 95 | 85 | 95 | 88 | 90 |
| Signal to Noise Ratio (dB) | 90: 1 | 85: 1 | 90: 1 | 95: 1 | 95: 1 | 90: 1 | 85: 1 | 90: 1 | 80: 1 | 90: 1 |
| Integrated Power Suppliers (Individual Amplifiers) | 5 | 5 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 4 |
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| Digital to Analog Converter | ||||||||||
| Artificial Surround Sound | ||||||||||
| Features | ||||||||||
| Low-Frequency Drivers | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | ||||||
| Medium-Frequency Drivers | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 |
| High-Frequency Drivers | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | ||
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| Micro-USB port | ||||||||||
| Dimensions | ||||||||||
| Height (Inches) | 9.6 | 14 | 6 | 10 | 13 | 11 | 6.5 | 15 | 16 | 13 |
| Width (Inches) | 5.1 | 6 | 1.5 | 4 | 3.5 | 5 | 6.5 | 2 | 4 | 4.4 |
| Depth (Inches) | 1.9 | 6 | 2.2 | 6 | 4.1 | 6 | 1.6 | 5 | 3.5 | 3.6 |
| Weight (Pounds) | 2.5 | 3 | 0.8 | 2.8 | 4.2 | 3.2 | 1.3 | 2.1 | 3.6 | 3.1 |
| Help & Support | ||||||||||
| Warranty (Years) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
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